Question

Write short note.

Characteristics of rural community

Answer 1

The characteristics of rural community are as follows:

1. Community living in villages: The village largely satisfies needs of its residents. They have a sense of togetherness. The development of villages is influenced considerably by the local needs.
2. Small size: The villages are comparatively smaller in size and population density. In India, a community with a population of about 5000 is designated as a ‘village’.
3. Dominance of agriculture: Agriculture is the major occupation in villages. However, it is not the only source of income. Almost 40% of India’s national income is obtained through agriculture and more than 60% people still depend on agriculture. It was associated with various crafts like pottery, carpentry, smithy, basket-weaving etc. 
4. Primary relations: The relationship amongst people is informal, personal and inclusive. Community spirit prevails over individual interests. The ‘we-feeling’ helps to build social cohesiveness.
5. Social homogeneity: Homogeneity is an underlying thread due to similarities in the ways of thinking, behaving, dressing, acting and living. There is a tendency to conform to traditions and customs. Group feeling and mutual cooperation is evident. Due to political interference, this cohesiveness has been adversely affected.
6. Significance of family: The rural community is built around the institution of family. The joint family was once upon a time a significant pillar of village organisation. This has diminished significantly and yet decision making has the impact of collective thinking. 
7. Status of women: Women in villages continue to live under patriarchal control. The ideal of ‘Pativrata’ is strongly instilled in the minds of women and men alike. Women are expected to fulfil their traditional roles. There is an unstated approval for the subservient role of women.
8. Religiosity: Faith in religious practices and rituals is a dominant feature. People have deep faith in religion, God and in religious traditions. Each village has its own deity (Gramdevata). People of all castes normally worship it and celebrate fairs or ‘utsav’ (festival) at least once a year. Additionally, people worship their own family deities.
9. Dominance of caste system: Indian village life is inextricably linked with the caste system which is hierarchical. This interdependence among caste groups in seen in the practice of the balutedari system.

The above characteristics have undergone vast changes, especially after Independence. Hence, they are to be understood in their dynamic perspective and in a relative sense.